United States Ambassador to Maldives Alaina Teplitz declared on Monday that the US is ready to provide cooperation regarding the security challenges faced by countries in the South Asian region, including Maldives.

Teplitz made this statement in a meeting held at Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) with Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi.

According to the Defence Ministry, Teplitz noted the priority given by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government to establish adequate safety measures.

In return, Minister Mariya expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the US in conducting military training and in other areas. The minister assured that the Maldivian military is taking the steps necessary for the situation.

High ranking officials of MNDF, including Chief of Defence Force Major General Abdulla Shamaal, also took part in the meeting.

Diplomatic relations between Maldives and US are improving with the recent administration change.